Introduction

The Institute’s principal focus is on the elected members of Boards of ICOS Co-operatives, and Board officers. The following is a list of the functions of the Institute:

• Act as an expert body for the governance of Co-operative organisations
• Establish a set of governance principles for Co-operative Societies in Ireland
• Act as a network through which members of the Boards of co-operative organisations could protect and promote their interests
• Provide recognised training and education for its members
• Hold a register of those who are considered to have reached a particular level of competence with regard to acting as a Board Member of a Co-operative Society
• Represent the interests of the Boards of Irish co-operative organisations internationally
• Act as an organisation which provides mutual support to its members
• Establish structures to ensure compliance with the Institutes set of Governance principles, including disciplinary procedures.